The law relating to the wearing of seat belts by children changed in September 2006. Pregnant women are required by law to wear a seat belt if available. The Law states that it is the responsibility of the driver to ensure that children are properly restrained in a vehicle.

Child under 3 years of age

Front seat: Correct child restraint*
Rear seat: Correct child restraint* must be used. If one is not available in a taxi, then the child may travel unrestrained. This is the only exemption and is practical rather than safe, so always try to make sure a child seat is available.

Rear-ward facing child seats

for children from birth to approx 12 to 15 months.

It is now illegal to use a rear-ward facing child restraint in a vehicle seat which is protected by an active front airbag, although recent research indicates that these provide greater protection for children up to 40 lbs. Visit the RoSPA website for detailed information about the use of these seats.

Child from 3rd birthday, up to either 135 cm in height or 12 years old

Front seat: Correct child restraint* must be used.
Rear seat Where seat belts fitted, Correct child restraint* must be used. Must use adult belt if the correct child restraint is not available in three scenarios:

• in a licensed taxi/PHV.
• over a short distance for reason of unexpected necessity.
• two occupied child restraints prevent fitment of a third.

In addition, a child aged 3 and over may travel unrestrained in the rear seat of a vehicle if seat belts are not available.

Child aged 12 or 13 or younger child 135 cm or more in height

Front seat Seat belt must be worn if available.
Rear seat Adult seat belt must be worn if available.

All passengers over the age of 14 years

Front seat Seat belt must be worn if available.
Rear seat Adult seat belt must be worn if available.

*Full information on “correct child restraint“.

If there are not enough seat belts available:

The law does not prevent you from carrying more passengers than there are restraints, but available restraints should be used wherever possible. If you have to choose who rides without a restraint, heavier passengers will cause greater injury to others in an accident if they are not wearing a seat belt. 

To find out more about the correct fitting of child car seats and wearing of seat belts, or general road safety information and advice, please contact the Road Safety Team, Plymouth City Council, Civic Centre, Plymouth, PL1 2EW. Tel: (01752) 307730.

Car Safety Equipment can be purchased from Car Accessory shops or suppliers of Baby Equipment

Recently-published advice on purchasing a child car seat:

• Never use a child car seat that has been involved in an accident
• Never buy or use a second-hand child car seat, unless you know its history
• Choose the right car seat for your child’s weight, not age
• Ensure the child car seat fits your car
• Ensure the child car seat is fitted properly
• NEVER use a child car seat on a passenger seat fitted with an airbag